Berkeley's profile has many international students. They also have many science majors, and 0 liberal arts.If you were actually from the states, do you think that would be an advantage or disadvantage in the admissions process and why?Secondly, if you have a liberal arts background (say pol sci.) but you happen to have a second degree in math, and good quant scores, do you think that would be an advantage or disadvantage in the admissions process and why?To be foreign or not...unless uni's have stopped blindly valuing diversity, it would appear to be an advantage on both counts.

Berkeley would probably gladly accept your tuition money whether you are foreign or not. Finding a job could prove tricky if you are, though.

all things considered equal, you seem to suggest that Berkeley would not be interested in whether or not a domestic/international student would raise/lower the job placement/subsequent reputation of their masters program.I'm also curious why international students would find a hard time finding a job as opposed to domestic ones. (thats not my opinion...I am interpreting it as yours)

everything boils down to the state of the economy. it is so bad nowadays, evey experienced derivative structurer lose their jobs !how do u think the bank will sponsor a foreign citizen for an entry-level position ? I don't mean impossible but not this or last yr.when restructuring were taking place.

QuoteOriginally posted by: kamdall things considered equal, you seem to suggest that Berkeley would not be interested in whether or not a domestic/international student would raise/lower the job placement/subsequent reputation of their masters program.I'm also curious why international students would find a hard time finding a job as opposed to domestic ones. (thats not my opinion...I am interpreting it as yours)Take a look at the profile of the current MFE students on their web site. They look very foreign to me...

QuoteOriginally posted by: kamdI'm also curious why international students would find a hard time finding a job as opposed to domestic ones. (thats not my opinion...I am interpreting it as yours)It's not my opinion--it's reality. Feel free not to believe me!